Catechesis of the Good Shepherd 

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a ministry that seeks to serve children by providing a space of prayer. Here the children, in community with each other and the program adults, seek a closer relationship with God. We call our space “the atrium,” and it is not meant to be a classroom. Rather, it is a place of to prepare for participation in the Holy Mass. The mission of the catechists is to humbly serve by proclaiming and listening to the Word of God alongside the child. With the help of others, the catechists prepare materials that invite the children to explore and deepen their experience of the presentation at their own rhythm. 

If you are interested in reading more about CGS, please visit the National CGS website. Here a link to an Introduction to the CGS on their website. We will also be hosting an open house to view the atrium, ask questions and learn more about CGS on October 14, 2022 from 4:00pm-6:00pm in rooms 14/16 of the Education Center.

At St. William we have an atrium for children ages 3-6 which we call Level I. 

We also have a combined atrium for children ages 6-12 which we call Level II/III. 

It is important for parents to note that at St. William, CGS is not interchangeable with our parish Religious Education Program. Children in 1st grade this year must be enrolled in our parish RE program or in Catholic school this year in order to be eligible for First Holy Communion next year in 2nd grade. Please refer to St. William Elementary Faith Formation webpage for more information or call the St. William office for more information. Children can be registered for CGS in addition to either the parish RE program or Catholic school religion classes.

CGS will meet for 4-6 pm Friday afternoons.

Registration can be reserved during the Open House event.
Tuition fees are under review at this time and will be announced as soon as possible.

A parent or guardian who is EIM certified and has attended assistant formation will need to assist their children while they attend.

Assistants will be offered formation opportunities to be prepared to participate in the atrium with their child at no extra cost.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a volunteer ministry. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer in CGS, please  email us at cgs@st-william.org